Rhodes Scholars study at Oxford University.
Graduate students pursuing research may find that their academic interests draw them overseas. However, studying abroad can be expensive. Even though foreign tuitions tend to be lower than their American counterparts, travel and living expenses can become extremely high. Nevertheless, the experience of living abroad---as well as the research that students undertake at foreign universities---can be invaluable for their future career prospects. Several foundations and fellowships offer resources for students who wish to study at the postgraduate (graduate, in American terms) level abroad, and can help students turn their research goals into academic realities.
Fulbright Program
Adventurous graduate students might consider applying for a Fulbright research grant. Available for study in 140 countries, the Fulbright grant provides American students who will have received their Bachelor's by the start of the grant with the opportunity to pursue their research interests abroad. The application process starts early (with a deadline in October of the year before the proposed grant would begin) and is rigorous; however, the Fulbright program is respected around the world. Students wishing to receive their degree from a foreign university must find separate funding for subsequent years, however, as a Fulbright is generally for one academic year and non-renewable.
Rhodes Scholarships
With alumni ranging from former U.S. President Bill Clinton to singer Kris Kristofferson, the Rhodes Scholarship was the first program of international scholarships. Participants must study at the University of Oxford, one of the U.K.'s leading universities, and may pursue studies in any full-time postgraduate program. The program normally awards the scholarship for two years, though it can also be awarded for one or three years, depending on the student's course of study. Rhodes scholars receive free tuition and a monthly maintenance stipend. Easily one of the most prestigious international scholarships, the Rhodes Scholarship is extremely competitive, with an application process beginning far in advance of the year of proposed study.
International Federation of University Women Fellowships
The International Federation of University Women awards International Student Graduate Scholarships for women studying at various universities around the world. These scholarships are for students in the second year of their doctorate or higher, and are the equivalent of $7,000 to $9,000. Fellowships are for between eight and 12 months of work, and are intended to support the research the student has already begun in her first year of doctoral study. The Federation awards between 16 and 25 scholarships each year.
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